eSIM technology makes it easier and cheaper to stay online as you explore different countries. I broke down the best and cheapest eSIM for Europe travel. In a nutshell :
- Best Overall eSIM: SimOptions (I used to use this option before moving to London)
- Top eSIM Providers: SimOptions, Airalo, Nomad, and Saily.
Why Choose an eSIM for Europe Travel?
eSIMs are just easy with no messing around like putting pre-paid SIM cards. It also activates online so you can use it right away when you land in Europe.
Top Factors to Consider When Choosing an eSIM
When choosing an eSIM for Europe, make sure to check which countries you are visiting. I normally just go for unlimited plan as I can just freely use internet but if you are a saver, you can see how much you use a month and then match your usage. all eSIMs are super easy to install, so I will explain a bit more later.
Comparing the The Best and Cheapest eSIM for Europe Travel (Comparison Chart)
| Best For | eSIM Provider | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall for Europe (If you are just a lazy person like me) | SimOptions | – It is easy and simple to navigate – they are directly working telecom companies, so it is more reliable. – Most competitive price with discounts | – Not the best if you are looking for 1GB – 5GB options. |
| Best for Heavy Internet Users (If you plan to use Social Media and Youbue Heavily) | Airalo | – If you spend over 100GB a month, this is the best eSIM | – Coverage slightly less extensive than SimOptions |
| Best for Most Travelers (If you are only using it for Chats / Google Map and Occasional Social Media) | Nomad | – If you use around 10GB – 20GB a month in real life, this is the best option | – Limited data plan options for heavy users – Fewer data plan options for long-term travelers |
| Best for Light Travellers (If you are only using WhatsApp type of chat ) | Saily | – Most affordable plans starting at $5 for 1GB – Good for short trips (Cheapest with 1 – 5 GB data) | – Limited to smaller data packages – Not ideal for heavy data users |
How to Purchase and Install an eSIM
Buying and setting up an eSIM is simple:
- Check Your Phone: Make sure your phone supports eSIM (most modern phones do).
- Buy Online: Head to the eSIM provider’s website or app, choose your plan, and pay.
- Install the eSIM: Usually, once you buy an eSIM card, they will send you a QR code to scan and just follow the instruction.
- Activate and Use: Once it’s installed, activate it in your phone’s settings, and you’re good to go! (normally once you land in Europe, just toggle the button)
Tips for Maximizing Your eSIM Data
Make the most of your eSIM data with these tips:
- Use Wi-Fi: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible, like in hotels or cafes, to save data.
- Track Your Usage: Always refresh when you start tracking your usage
- Download Offline Content: Before heading out, download maps, music, or shows over Wi-Fi so you can use them without burning through data.
- Control Background App Data: Limit background data usage for apps that don’t need constant updates. The easiest way to do it is to turn on “LOW BATTERY MODE”